"I would like to thank so many people for making my time at Maccabi such a wonderful experience. The loyal, hard-working staff who work tirelessly behind the scenes, a great set of talented players who I loved working with, and passionate fans who showed their support both at home in Netanya and across the country.

"It's been a pleasure to see Jordi and the team mature over the last few months, culminating with a Toto Cup final victory over Be'ersheva and the first trophy in three years.

"I wish Jordi, the staff, players and fans every success for the rest of the season and will surely come back to visit when Maccabi Tel Aviv win the championship."

Cruyff said the club were "extremely grateful to Steve for the professional help he has given us over the past five months."

He added: "He advised me a lot personally and we benefited from his input and the wealth of his experience. We knew right from the start that this was a temporary role, but in that short time managed to learn from a professional of the highest calibre."

Sky Sports has reported that ex-Middlesbrough, and Newcastle boss McClaren wants to pursue coaching opportunities back in the UK.

His last English managerial post was with Derby, who sacked him for the second time in March.

Maccabi chief executive Ben Mansford hinted that McClaren may have something on the table back home.

Mansford, said: "We were delighted when Steve joined us in the summer to work with our coaching staff. Jordi and Steve alongside the rest of the staff have worked very well as a team.

"We are naturally disappointed Steve decided to pursue other options but this was something we knew could happen right from the start."

Information from the Press Association was used in this report.

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